from קָצַע in the denominative sense of bending; an angle; corner.
Transliteration:mᵉqutsʻâh
Pronunciation:mek-oots-aw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מְקֻצְעָה (mᵉqutsʻâh, `{{H4742}}`) is a feminine noun derived from the root קָצַע (qātsaʿ, `{{H7106}}`). While the root can signify "to cut off" or "to scrape," in its denominative sense, it conveys the idea of "bending" or "forming a corner." Consequently, מְקֻצְצָה denotes a specific type of "angle" or "corner," particularly in an architectural or structural context. It refers to a precise point where two planes or lines meet, creating a defined boundary or juncture. Unlike more general terms for "corner," מְקֻצְצָה carries a nuance of a formed, perhaps even "cut out" or "squared off," angle, emphasizing precision in construction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מְקֻצְעָה (mᵉqutsʻâh, `{{H4742}}`) appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both instances occurring in the same verse: [[1 Kings 7:34]]. This verse describes the intricate construction of the bronze stands for the lavers in Solomon's Temple: "And there were four supports at the four corners (מְקֻצְעוֹת) of each stand; their supports were cast, with a relief of lions, oxen, and cherubim, and upon the supports was a base above, and beneath the lions and oxen were wreaths of hanging work." The repetition within the verse, "four supports at the four corners (מְקֻצְעוֹת)," emphasizes the symmetrical and robust design of these significant Temple implements. The context here is purely architectural, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship and structural integrity of the sacred furnishings. The use of this specific term suggests a technical detail, indicating the precise angles or squared-off corners that provided stability and form to the stands, which were integral to the purification rituals of the Temple.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root verb קָצַע (qātsaʿ, `{{H7106}}`), from which מְקֻצְעָה (mᵉqutsʻâh, `{{H4742}}`) is derived. Another significant derivative is מִקְצוֹעַ (miqtsôaʿ, `{{H4736}}`), also meaning "corner" or "angle," particularly an "outer corner," and is used in contexts like the corners of the tabernacle (e.g., [[Exodus 26:24]]) or the Temple (e.g., [[Ezekiel 41:22]]).
It is crucial to distinguish מְקֻצְעָה (mᵉqutsʻâh, `{{H4742}}`) from the more common Hebrew word for "corner," פִּנָּה (pinnâh, `{{H6438}}`). While both refer to corners, פִּנָּה (pinnâh) has a broader semantic range, encompassing not only physical corners of buildings or streets but also figurative senses like "cornerstone" (e.g., [[Isaiah 28:16]], referring to the Messiah) or "chief" and "leader" (e.g., [[Judges 20:2]]). The specific and limited usage of מְקֻצְעָה (mᵉqutsʻâh) in 1 Kings 7 suggests a more specialized architectural or technical term, denoting a precisely formed, perhaps even "cut" or "squared," angle, rather than a general corner. Concepts related to מְקֻצְעָה include precision, structural stability, architectural detail, and divine order in sacred construction.
### Theological Significance
Despite its limited occurrences, the theological significance of מְקֻצְעָה (mᵉqutsʻâh, `{{H4742}}`) lies in its context: the construction of Solomon's Temple. The meticulous description of the Temple's furnishings, down to the specific design of the "corners" of the laver stands, underscores a profound theological truth: God is a God of order, precision, and beauty. Every detail of the sacred space, from the grandest structures to the smallest components, was designed and executed with divine particularity. The "corners" (מְקֻצְעוֹת) of the stands represent points of structural integrity and stability, essential for supporting the lavers used for ritual purification. This detail subtly communicates that even the seemingly minor elements of worship and sacred service are not arbitrary but are carefully ordained and contribute to the overall divine blueprint. It reflects a theology where God's presence demands excellence and exactitude, ensuring that all aspects of His dwelling place and its implements are fit for His glory and the sacred acts performed within. The emphasis on these specific, well-formed angles speaks to the solidity and permanence of God's covenant and the worship offered to Him.
### Summary
מְקֻצְעָה (mᵉqutsʻâh, `{{H4742}}`) is a precise Hebrew term denoting an "angle" or "corner," particularly in an architectural context, derived from the root קָצַע (qātsaʿ, `{{H7106}}`), implying a formed or squared-off juncture. Its rare but significant appearances are confined to [[1 Kings 7:34]], where it describes the four supports at the "corners" of the bronze stands within Solomon's Temple. This specific usage highlights the meticulous craftsmanship and structural exactitude employed in sacred construction, distinguishing it from the more general term for corner, פִּנָּה (pinnâh, `{{H6438}}`). Theologically, the presence of מְקֻצְעָה underscores God's character as one who demands order, precision, and beauty in all things, especially in the sacred space dedicated to His worship, reflecting the divine blueprint for stability and integrity.
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